How to stick to a good diet through quarantine

Whilst at home it can be tempting to sit on the sofa or at your make-shift desk, eating unbalanced meals and snacking all day. The temptation to ‘stress-eat’ can be high, but by taking a few steps to ensure you have access to healthier food and drink, you can keep yourself in good shape during this period of quarantine.

Try and change your mindset. Focus on keeping healthy, eating right and staying active, this will not only benefit your body but also your mental health.

For those of us in self-isolation and who do not have anyone to bring you food during this time, sign up to home deliveries at your local supermarket. It is also worth having a look online to see if there are any community support groups in your area who could help with your shopping.

PLAN YOUR MEALS

It can be tricky to get your portions right, not to mention a balanced nutritional diet. Try and set aside some time on a Sunday to plan your meals for the week, making sure you are getting a good amount of fruit, vegetables, protein, carbs, fibre and some healthy fats.

Planning snacks is just as important as your meals. Try switching some sugary treats to some healthier ones, like carrot or cucumber sticks with a hummus dip. Try cooking some of your dishes in bulk and store them for the week ahead. This can make it much easier to manage your meals during the week as well as saving some well needed time.

When planning your meals, try and make sure you are eating enough during the day. This will help limit night-time overeating or snacking.

STAY HYDRATED

Keeping well hydrated by drinking water is beneficial to both body and brain functions. It improves sleep quality and mood - two things which are potentially under strain during this period.

Try and avoid drinking juice and fizzy drinks containing high levels of sugar. If you don’t like the taste of plain water or perhaps you are just a little board of the taste, try adding a slice of lemon, lime or mint.

It is also worth keeping a large bottle near you during the day, serving as a reminder to keep on drinking.

GET SOME GREAT INGREDIENTS

Keeping well hydrated by drinking water is beneficial to both body and brain functions. It improves sleep quality and mood - two things which are potentially under strain during this period.

Try and avoid drinking juice and fizzy drinks containing high levels of sugar. If you don’t like the taste of plain water or perhaps you are just a little board of the taste, try adding a slice of lemon, lime or mint.

It is also worth keeping a large bottle near you during the day, serving as a reminder to keep on drinking.